RIOC Explains Why Roosevelt Island Public Safety Department Did Not Respond To Report Of Lewd Incident At Subway Platform Mezzanine And Reason For PSD Officers Stationed Inside Duane Reade Store

A Roosevelt Island resident reported on January 17:

Who should we call when there are people on our subway platform that need help? This morning as you get on the mezzanine my husband sees woman pulling down a guys pants to his ankles. Have some drug paraphernalia. Woman looks up at him and asks what are you looking at. Go to work. 

Called the public safety and they said we don’t have jurisdiction there and our radios don’t work Another guy called and he was told to call the cop in the booth.

I asked Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) Communications Director Bryant Daniels if RIOC had any comment on the matter.

Mr Daniels answered:

It's correct that we don’t have jurisdiction on the subway platform, the NYC Transit Police do. In those non-emergency instances like a lewd incident, the best thing for subway riders to do is dial 911, which is the fastest way to get those who do have jurisdiction on site, or alert the MTA station attendant. PSD will obviously respond if it’s a life-threatening emergency, but we still don’t have jurisdiction in the subways. 

What we mean about the radios is that PSD is not hooked into the NYPD radio system, so we can’t radio them for assistance.

Another resident asked:

I'm flabbergasted that PSD is in charge of Duane Reade's safety. I always thought they hired their own private security staff, but indeed, I paid attention to the uniform today and it's PSD. Why are public resources used for a private business? No bad faith on my part, just genuinely curious. I'm sure there is a reason

During the January 14 RIOC Public Public Safety Department Community Engagement meeting, PSD Chief Kevin Brown reported on the stationing of PSD officers inside the Duane Reade. According to Chief Brown in 2023 there were 161 Petit Larcenies at the Roosevelt Island Duane Reade. Chief Brown added:

... That's a lot no matter how you slice it. We put an officer specifically in that area and we went down in 2024 to 31. That is a dramatic decrease. That means that we're being proactive.

There were some people who say that that PSC resources are going to that area but this is what I can say about that. There were other things that would happen with these Petit Larcenies down there. Our neighbors, our residents ...  are being harassed by the people who are also committing these crimes so the officers being in the area are small deterrence.

Going down from 161 to 31 is a dramatic decrease, almost 80%. This is something that as a community that is the best way to go forward...

Here's the Duane Reade discussion.

Restart the video from beggining to watch the full January 15 PSD Community Engagement meeting.

Horrible News, The Daughter Of Roosevelt Island Tram Operations Manager And 2 Grandsons Shot, 1 Grandson Killed - GoFundMe Page Created To Help The Family

CBS News New York reported on November 2: 

A vigil was held Saturday night for a Westchester County mother and her two sons who police say were shot by the woman's boyfriend earlier this week.

Fifteen-year-old Michael Raimondi was killed late Monday night when police say Fernando Jimenez shot him, his mother and his younger brother at their Somers home.

Jimenez, 40, was arrested hours later. Police say he was hiding out in a real estate office about 10 miles from the crime scene

Christina Raimondi and Matthew Raimondi remain hospitalized....

Christina Raimondi is the daughter, Michael and Matthew Raimondi the grandsons of longtime Roosevelt Island Tram Operations Manager Armando Cordova.

Mr Cordova Shown On Right At May 2016 Tram 40th Anniversary Celebration

A GoFundMe page was created to help the Raimondi family:

Dear friends, family, and compassionate strangers,

We’re reaching out during a moment of profound heartbreak on behalf of Christina and her two beloved sons, Matthew and Michael. Recently, this family endured a devastating domestic violence incident. Michael, a cherished 15-year-old son and brother, tragically lost his life, and now Christina and Matthew are both in critical condition. As Christina fights for her life, she faces the unimaginable reality of having to bury her child. Their road to recovery will be long, arduous, and filled with immense challenges....

Click here for more info at the GoFundMe page.

Watch Video Of July 23 RIOC Public Safety Community Engagement Meeting Discussion With Roosevelt Island Residents About Main Street Traffic Safety, Domestic Violence Assaults, Mental Illness, Duane Reade Shoplifting, PSD Staffing Levels, New Stop Signs & More

The Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) Public Safety Department (PSD) hosted a Community engagement meeting Tuesday evening July 23. RIOC PSD Chief Kevin Brown and Communications Department Director Bryant Daniels spoke with and answered questions from about a half dozen Roosevelt Island residents at the Good Shepherd Community Center. 

Chief Brown emphasized the low level of crime on Roosevelt Island but reported that most of the crime on Roosevelt Island continues to be of domestic violence and incidents related to mental illness. 

Chief Brown spoke and answered questions about:

• 2 New Solar Powered Light Up Main Street stop signs by PS/IS 217,
• Tuesday August 6 Law Enforcement annual National Night Out,
• Cooling Center at Good Shepherd during extreme heat days,
• Crime is very low on Roosevelt Island but there were 10 instances of assault caused by domestic violence,
• 20-25% of PSD calls are for incidents involving mental illness of emotional disturbed persons,
• Shoplifting incidents at Duane Reade are down from 10-15 per week to 1-2 with the placement of a PSD Officer in the area,
• Homeless people,
• PSD staffing levels, 27 officers have left to join the NYPD. 6 new officers have recently been hired,
• Pet registration in case they get lost,
• Main Street traffic safety, speeding, u turns, illegal street parking
• PSD Officer assigned to cover Main Street every day from 7 in the morning to 11 at night

Here's the full video of the July 23 RIOC PSD Community Engagement meeting.

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NYPD Special Victims Squad Seeking Your Help Identifying Suspect In June 29 Roosevelt Island Sexual Assault Forcible Touching Of 19 Year Old Female

Two week ago I noticed two NYPD Special Victims detectives appearing to be investigating an incident by the Roosevelt Island Riverwalk Commons area. I asked the detectives what happened but they declined to comment.

The NYPD Special Victims unit tweeted yesterday:

Here is an updated picture of this man still wanted by the Queens Special Victims Squad for a sexual assault that occurred on June 29, 2024, at 3:20 a.m. in the vicinity of Roosevelt Island. If you have any information, call 718-520-9277. https://t.co/zldV8B70Xi pic.twitter.com/34sf0mCR6W

— NYPD Special Victims (@NYPDSVU) July 15, 2024

I asked the NYPD for further information:

The NYPD Special Victims tweeted today about a sexual assault that occured June 29 on Roosevelt Island which is in the jurisdiction of the 114 precinct in Queens.

Here is link to the Tweet.

Please note that there is a subtweet which says the assault took place on Roosevelt Avenue which is different from Roosevelt Island.

The picture of the suspect is from the Roosevelt Island subway station.

Do you have any more specific information on what happened?

A NYPD spokesperson answered today:

It was reported to police that on Sunday, June 30, 2024, at approximately 0315 hours, a 19-year-old female was walking in the vicinity of Main Street and West Main Street, when an unknown male approached her and demanded a kiss. The complainant asked the individual to leave her alone. The individual then pushed her against a wall and, and forcibly touched the victim’s private area.. There were no injuries reported as a result of this incident. The suspect fled on foot. There is no arrest and the investigation is ongoing.

Watch Video Of Last Night's Roosevelt Island Public Safety Community Engagement Meeting With Residents Discussing Variety Of Local Issues - NYPD Narcotics Search Warrant/Arrest/ Main Street Traffic Safety, Sidewalk Marijuana Smoking, Unleashed Dogs On Ballfields, Duane Reade Shoplifting & More

The Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) Public Safety Department (PSD) hosted a Community engagement meeting last evening, May 21. RIOC PSD Chief Kevin Brown and Communications Department Director Bryant Daniels spoke with and answered questions from about a dozen Roosevelt Island residents at the Good Shepherd Community Center.

Chief Brown emphasized the low level of crime on Roosevelt Island but acknowledged there are instances of domestic violence and incidents related to mental illness. 

Among the issues discussed were:

• Petit larcenies (shoplifting) at Duane Reade have decreased from 46 at this time last year to eight this year. Chief Brown attributes the decrease to having a PSD officer stationed  in Southtown near the Duane Reade,
• Main Street traffic safety - cars, motorcycles, bicycles, delivery drivers, (average 800 parking summons a month and 20-25 moving summons)
• NYPD Narcotics Officer executed a Search Warrant and arrested a juvenile at 460 Main Street,
• Dogs running unleased on ballfields chasing children and adults,
• PSD giving tickets and towing cars from private building driveways,
• Decrease in quality of life caused by outdoor marijuana smoking and loitering in front of Roosevelt Landings. Chief Brown replied that it is legal to smoke marijuana outdoors and there is nothing PSD can do about it. 
• Deputy Chief Anthony Amoroso met with local girl scout troop to learn personal safety skills.

Here's the full video of the May 21 RIOC PSD Community Engagement meeting.

Turn on the subtitiles/closed captions if you're having trouble hearing what is being said.

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RIOC Reports Large Group Of Disorderly People Fighting On Roosevelt Island Main Street Last Night Closing Traffic For 25 Minutes - NYPD Arrests 2

Last evening about 8 PM I started getting messages and photos of a brawl on Main Street with a large response by NYPD, FDNY ambulances and Roosevelt Island Public Safety Department to the incident.

I asked Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) Communications Director Bryant Daniels and PSD Chief Kevin Brown last night:

There are a lot of NYPD and ambulances tonight on Main Street. Residents report a brawl between groups on Main Street. Can you provide details as to what happened?

RIOC Communications Department Director Bryant Daniels answered this morning:

At about 8:30 PM in front of 546 Main Street there was a large group of disorderly people whose conduct descended into fighting. Both PSD and NYPD responded to the incident and two arrests were made by NYPD officers, one male and one female (juvenile), both charged with disorderly conduct. They were taken to the 114th precinct for processing. Due to the scope of the NYPD response, traffic was closed on Main Street for approximately 25 minutes. There were no reported injuries.

The RIOC PSD Daily Blotter reported the incident as follows:

05/02/24 – 2015 – 540 Main Street – Disorderly Group – PSD and NYPD responded – Report filed.

A NYPD Spokesperson adds:

A juvenile report* for disorderly conduct was issued a 14 year-old female. There were no other reports issued. 

*a report taken for a subject under 16 who allegedly committed an act that would constitute an offense if committed by an adult.

April 6 Assault At Roosevelt Island F Train Subway Station Platform And April 8 Assault At Motorgate Garage

The Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) Public Safety Department (PSD) Daily Blotter reports 2 assaults taking place on Roosevelt Island this past week.

According to the RIOC PSD Blotter:

04/06/24 – 1913 – 400 Main Street – Assault – PSD, EMS, and NYPD responded – Report filed/ Transported to hospital.

04/08/24 – 0451 – 688 Main Street – Assault – PSD, EMS and NYPD responded – Report file

I asked RIOC Communications Director Bryant Daniels and the NYPD for more details about these incidents.

According to a NYPD spokesperson:

There is a report on file for a robbery, within the confines of the Transit District 20/114 Precinct. A 54 year-old female reported to police that on Saturday, April 6, 2024 at approximately 1900 hours, while on the northbound platform waiting for a train at the Roosevelt Island train station she observed two females that she had a prior dispute with. A verbal dispute ensued which became physical. The complainant was punched and kicked multiple times in the face ... She suffered bleeding and a broken nose. They also removed $20 and her wig. Both individuals fled the location in an unknown direction. There are no arrests and the investigation is ongoing.

Regarding the April 8 Motorgate assault incident, 

RIOC Communications Director Bryant Daniels reports:

At approximately 4:51AM PSD responded to a call of a reported assault at 688 Main Street. Upon arriving at the scene, they spoke with a victim who stated he had been assaulted by an adult male. The victim sustained minor injuries and was examined by EMS. PSD officers took down a description of the assailant, located and detained the individual also at 688 Main Street. NYPD also responded and placed the individual under arrest. There was no weapon involved in the incident and both individuals were non-residents.

Mr Daniels added that he believes the victim was a homeless individual.

As previously reported:

The Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) Public Safety Department (PSD) hosted a March 12 community engagement meeting at the Good Shepherd Community Center.

RIOC PSD Chief Kevin Brown, Deputy Chief Anthony Amoroso, Deputy General Counsel/Interim Leadership Team member Gerrald Ellis, Communications Director Bryant Daniels and about a dozen Roosevelt Island residents attended the almost hour long meeting.

Among the issues discussed were:

• Overall low level of crime on Roosevelt Island but there are incidents of domestic violence and mental health issues,
• Issuance of parking summons and towing,
• Crowd control during Cherry Blossom Season and on the Roosevelt Island Tram,
• Shoplifting at Duane Reade,
• Missing packages at Roosevelt Landings
• Keeping communications open between PSD and the community,
• Lack of bathrooms,
• and more.

Here's full video of the March 12 Roosevelt Island Public Safety Community Engagement Meeting.

Two Brothers Arrested With Arsenal Of Homemade Explosives, Ghost Guns & Hit List Of Cops, Judges, Politicians And Celebrities At Apartment Across From Roosevelt Island Bridge In Astoria Yesterday Announced Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz

A Tipster reported:

Are you going to do any reporting on the early morning police raid on the suspected terrorists arrested from apartment building across from the RI bridge on Vernon Blvd? Apparently police found multiple weapons, bomb making equipment, and partially completed bomb. 

 

 A Roosevelt Island resident asked this morning:

Any info on the weapon raid in the apt house on the corner of the Queens side of the R.I.bridge?

NBC New York reports:

Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz and NYPD announced on (X)Twitter:

An arsenal of homemade bombs and ghost guns was found in an Astoria apartment.

We cannot measure the number of lives that were saved, but we do know that these weapons will never hurt anyone.

Two brothers each face 25 years in prison. https://t.co/ClBp0gKmed pic.twitter.com/VAOGAt8xSN

— Queens DA Katz (@QueensDAKatz) January 29, 2024

Our Major Case Team has recovered over 600 ghost guns since 2021. In a recent investigation, announced today with @QueensDAKatz, investigators found an arsenal of explosive devices and ghost guns before they could be used to cause harm. https://t.co/tvEVM2h6tB pic.twitter.com/EJHInHFZ6b

— NYPDCounterterrorism (@NYPDCT) January 29, 2024

According to a January 29 press release from the Queens District Attorney's office:

Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz announced that Andrew and Angelo Hatziagelis were indicted on 130 counts of criminal possession of a weapon and related charges after an arsenal of improvised explosive devices and ghost guns, including assault rifles, was found inside an Astoria apartment they shared with their mother and another brother. Instructions for making a variety of bombs, anarchist propaganda and a “hit list,” with “cops, judges, politicians, celebrities” and “banker scum” scrawled on it, were also found during a search of the home....

 ... On January 17, law enforcement officials executed a search warrant on the brothers’ residence resulting in their arrests and the seizure of:

Eight operational improvised explosive devices (IEDs)

One partially constructed trip-wire IED

Two loaded AR-15 style ghost gun assault weapons, each with a detachable magazine, muzzle compensator and threaded barrel

Two loaded 9 mm semiautomatic ghost gun pistols

Two loaded 9 mm semiautomatic 3D printed ghost gun pistols

One partially constructed AK-47 style ghost gun

Over 600 rounds of ammunition for each of the firearms above

One 3D printer

Three sets of body armor

Six additional AR/pistol lower receivers

29 high-capacity ammunition feeding devices, 13 of which were personally manufactured utilizing a 3D printer

Tools to assemble ghost guns

Metal knuckles

A radio set to the frequency of the 114th Precinct in Astoria

Several electronic devices (phones, computer)

Numerous notebooks containing instructions on the manufacture of explosive devices and anarchist related propaganda

Explosive residue, and components to manufacture additional IEDs

Nine pyrotechnic smoke bombs

Upon execution of the search warrant at the apartment complex, which is located directly across from a Con Edison power plant, members of the NYPD Bomb Squad were called to respond and subsequently evacuated the building due to the discovery of the live IEDs.... 

Click here for the full press release from the Queens District Attorney.

Roosevelt Island Duane Reade Vandalized This Afternoon, Merchandise Display Cases Knocked Over By Person Shoplifting

A Roosevelt Island Tipster reported this afternoon:

I got to Duane Reade at about 2:40 PM today and a man had apparently been trying to shoplift, got angry when confronted and knocked over displays.

Another resident reported Duane Reade temporarily closed to clean up.

According to store employees, nobody was injured and the shoplifter is a repeat offender known to them. The store reopened a short while later.

I asked Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) Public Safety Chief Kevin Brown:

I understand that Duane Reade was vandalized today and forced to shut down.

I'm told that a shoplifter got angry when he was confronted and started to vandalize and knock down rows of display items.

Any comment from RIOC on this subject of great concern to the Roosevelt Island community?

No response from Chief Brown.

During the September 19, 2023 Roosevelt Island Public Safety Department Community Engagement Meeting, Chief Brown discussed the Roosevelt Island Duane Reade shoplifting problem.

According to Chief Brown:

... Duane Reade/Walgreens, we have a number of Petit Larcenys in that location ... we have people who are going in the store and being disruptive to the way we want go about our way of life on Roosevelt Island and that's something we're working with Walgreens, working with Public Safety. I  have a foot posting in that area. When things happen down there, we're right on top of it... ...  Working with Walgreens, I was told they would not hire a full time security guard unless one of their people are injured or hurt ....

NYC Mayor Eric Adams yesterday announced the launching of a task force to combat retail theft.

Retail theft hurts everyone, especially our mom-and-pop shops and consumers.

Meet the task force to combat retail theft: https://t.co/pKQ6UixXYm pic.twitter.com/xa2y9EMFQF

— Mayor Eric Adams (@NYCMayor) November 8, 2023

Roosevelt Island Resident Says He Was Victim Of Home Invasion Early Morning Last Sunday, NYPD Arrest 14 Year Old Suspect Charged With Robbery, Assault, Weapon Possession & More

According to the November 5, 2023 Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) Public Safety Department (PSD) daily blotter:

11/05/23 – 0102 – 546 Main St – Robbery – PSD, EMS, and NYPD responded – Arrested by NYPD.

Without being asked, RIOC reported about the incident:

On November 5th at approximately 1:02AM, PSD responded to a complaint at 546 Main Street from a resident who said the apartment above was making an inordinate amount of noise. When PSD investigated the noisy apartment, they encountered an individual who advised they had just been the victim of a home invasion. The victim offered a detailed description of the events and was physically unharmed, but reported the perpetrator did display a firearm upon entry. The NYPD was notified and arrived on the scene shortly thereafter. At approximately 1:44AM, PSD officers were able to access video footage which showed the subject leaving the building shortly after the incident. NYPD took a photo from the video and began a level one mobilization of the entire Roosevelt Landings. The subject, who was identified as a resident of 460 Main Street, was then apprehended by NYPD officers and arrested without incident—no firearm was recovered. The alleged perpetrator is a juvenile and now faces several criminal charges.

 According to a NYPD spokesperson:

There is a report on file for a robbery that occurred on Sunday, November 5, 2023 at 0030 hours inside of 546 Main  Street, within the confines of the 114 Precinct. A 33-year-old male complainant reported that the suspect knocked on the door, and when he opened it , the suspect attempted to push his way in and struck him multiple times with a closed fist causing bruising and swelling to his face. During the course of the altercation a mirror broke causing minor scratches to the complainant. The complainant reported that he believed that he saw what appeared to be a firearm. The suspect attempted to take the complainant’s cellphone After a short canvass, the suspect was taken into custody. No weapon was recovered.

The following individual was arrested and charged.

14 year-old male

Charges:

Robbery

Grand Larceny

Burglary

Criminal Possession of a Weapon

Criminal Mischief

Assault

Yesterday I asked RIOC PSD Chief Kevin Brown:

On Friday evening November 3, a Roosevelt Island resident sent me the following message:

"Have you seen that large group of teenagers jumping on car hoods and stopping traffic on Main St?

I saw them on my way to the commons. It was rather quick and took place roughly between the church and Blackwell house. Removing plants from planters, screaming, stopping traffic, throwing road cones across the street, that sort of thing. A couple of other people were on the street too and we kept switching from one sideway to the other to avoid them.

Just general idiot adolescent behaviour, but the sheer number of them made the whole thing weird.

It was about 9:20.

We found it a little surprising because there was no one from the PSD anywhere despite it taking place right in front of their office."

The RIOC Public Safety Department blotter appears to describe the incident as follows:

11/03/23 – 2147 – 531 Main St – Disorderly Youth – PSD responded – Condition corrected.

Does RIOC have any comment on this incident?

Is it related to the November 5 arrest?

There has been no response from Chief Brown.

 

Today, I asked Chief Brown:

The RIOC PSD Blotter for 11/6 lists:

11/06/23 – 2146 – 400 Main St – Assault – PSD and NYPD responded – Report filed.

Please provide more details regarding this incident. What happened, were any weapons involved, was the victim injured? 

Has there been an arrest?

No response from Chief Brown.

During the October 17 RIOC PSD Community Engagement meeting, Chief Brown told the attending residents:

... as far as violent crime on the island, we've had three robberies this entire year. 

I've heard some people say that we've had a lot of crime issues. We've had three robberies and of the three robberies, two of them were young people, one was a student from the Child School and he robbed another student, took his Airpods. Another one was two kids from a a group home. Again they took the Airpods. The third one was a person that took some property from Wholesome. It was a larceny but turned into a robbery because they bit the person at Wholesome... Those are our most violent crimes on Roosevelt Island... 

As previously reported about the October 17 PSD Community Engagement meeting:

Roosevelt Island crimes this year not mentioned by Chief Brown during his presentation include:

• bloody stabbing inside the Bread & Butter Deli, 
• teenager stomped on and beat by a group of other teenagers,  
• hate crime assault arrest, 
• husband of a PS/IS 217 teacher assaulted outside the school with a knife, 
• man arrested with a loaded gun on Main Street,
• arson set in Roosevelt Landings AVAC garbage room
• Assault incident involving group of juveniles harassing an adult at Blackwell Basketball court.

Here's the full video of the;

• October 17,  
• September 19, 
• July 25, 
• June 13,  
• May 2  
• April 4 

RIOC PSD Community Engagement meetings.

NYPD Body Worn Camera Video Footage Of Police Fatal Shooting Last August Of 21 Year Old Roosevelt Island Man Wielding A Knife In Lobby Of 540 Main Street Released Today By NY State Attorney General Letitia James

Reported last August 5: 

21 Year Old Roosevelt Island Male Wielding A Large Knife Fatally Shot By NYPD Officers In Lobby Of 540 Main Street Responding To 911 Distress Calls By Family Member - Investigation Ongoing

Today, NY State Attorney General Letitia James released body camera footage from the NYPD officers on the scene.

According to this press release from Attorney General James:

New York Attorney General Letitia James today released police body-worn camera footage that her office obtained as part of its ongoing investigation into the death of a civilian who died on August 5, 2023, following an encounter with members of the New York City Police Department (NYPD) on August 4, 2023 on Roosevelt Island. On the evening of August 4, NYPD officers responded to the lobby of a residential building on Roosevelt Island where an individual approached the officers with a knife. During the encounter, two officers fired their weapons. The individual was taken to a local hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

The Office of Special Investigation (OSI) of the Attorney General’s Office released videos from body-worn cameras worn by four NYPD officers during the incident. The release of the videos follows Attorney General James’ directive that camera footage obtained by her office during an OSI investigation be released to the public in order to increase transparency and strengthen public trust in these matters.

Pursuant to New York State Executive Law Section 70-b, OSI assesses every incident reported to it where a police officer or a peace officer, including a corrections officer, may have caused the death of a person by an act or omission. Under the law, the officer may be on-duty or off-duty, and the decedent may be armed or unarmed. Also, the decedent may or may not be in custody or incarcerated. If OSI’s assessment indicates an officer may have caused the death, OSI proceeds to conduct a full investigation of the incident.

The release of this footage is not an expression of any opinion as to the guilt or innocence of any party in a criminal matter or any opinion as to how or whether any individual may be charged with a crime.

The name of the decedent is being withheld at the request of the decedent's family.

Warning: The videos contain imagery that viewers may find disturbing.

Also from August 5 reporting:

... NYPD commanding officer of Patrol Borough Queens North, Assistant Chief Christine Bastedenbeck, said during a 2;20 AM press conference in front of Roosevelt Landings:

At approximately 11 30 PM officers from the 114th Precinct responded to multiple 9-1-1 calls at 540 Main Street regarding a male 21 years of age who was reportedly threatening a family member with a knife. The caller was a relative inside the location who also stated the armed male was off his medication and under the influence of marijuana.

The responding sector car consisted of two officers who are also backed up by two additional officers. The incident was captured on body worn camera and shows the four officers entering the lobby of the building.

Three officers then entered one of the two elevators while another officer propped the lobby door open to allow for additional responding officers to enter the building. All of a sudden the suspect emerged from the second elevator not occupied by our officers and moved quickly towards the officer securing the door swinging the knife directly at this officer. 

That officer retreated outside of the lobby and then the suspect then charged towards the elevator occupied by our officers still armed with the knife. The officers inside the elevator attempted to deploy a taser and also discharge their firearm striking the suspect.A large knife was recovered from the right hand of the suspect as seen here. 

Officers began rendering aid until EMS could transport the suspect to an area hospital where he was pronounced deceased 28 minutes after midnight. Thankfully none of the officers or civilians in the area were injured during this incident. I also want to acknowledge the response of local peace officers from the Roosevelt Island Public Safety unit 

The investigation will be handled by our Force investigation Division and additional information will be provided by DCPI as it becomes available....

CBS New York reported at the time.

Man Punched In Face And Bloodied Outside Of Roosevelt Island Starbucks On Sunday Afternoon, Second Incident In Area During Past Week - Continued Silence From RIOC, What Happened To Promised 100% Transparency?

A Roosevelt Island eyewitness Tipster reported yesterday, August 13, at approximately 5 PM:

An older gentleman sitting outside of Starbucks got punched pretty hard by a young man. The two continued to  argue with the younger man retreating to the subway. I didn't see the whole thing but Public Safety arrived right away and spoke to both. NYPD is here too.

He got punched really hard because there is blood all over his chin.

The August 13 RIOC PSD Blotter reported:

08/13/23 – 1645 – 455 Main St – Juvenile Related – PSD and EMS responded – Report filed.

The RIOC PSD Blotter says nothing about a man being punched in the face and bloodied.

Yesterday, I asked Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) Public Safety Department Chief Kevin Brown and Assistant Vice President of Communications Akeem Jamal:

...  Does RIOC have any comment to the Roosevelt Island community on this incident and any more details of what happened?.

There has been no response from RIOC.

Today, I asked the NYPD:

Yesterday, August 13 at approximately 4:30 pm an older male was punched in the face by a younger male at the Starbucks outdoor patio on Roosevelt Island 455 Main Street. The younger man escaped into the subway. I'm told that NYPD 114 officers arrived, spoke to the victim and took a statement.

Do you have any info on this incident?

Also on Thursday August 10 at approximately 9 AM a teenager was robbed by a masked wearing suspect at 465 Main Street (which is nearby to the Starbucks) and ran into the subway as well. The 114 precinct responded and took statements.

Do you have any info on this incident? Are the incidents related?...

The NYPD spokesperson replied:

There are no complaint reports on file with information you’ve provided.

A Starbucks worker confirmed today that an older man was punched in the face by a younger man yesterday outside Starbucks and that the victim's face was bloodied and scratched. 

RIOC has still not commented on the August 10 morning robbery of teenager near the subway.

During the July 25 PSD Community Engagement meeting, Chief Brown said that PSD:

... will address issues when they come before us and we will do 100% to be transparent... 

Unfortunately, answering public safety questions from the local Roosevelt Island press in a timely, or at all, is apparently not part of RIOC's transparency definition.

21 Year Old Roosevelt Island Male Wielding A Large Knife Fatally Shot By NYPD Officers In Lobby Of 540 Main Street Responding To 911 Distress Calls By Family Member - Investigation Ongoing

Shortly after midnight this morning, a Roosevelt Island Tipster reported:

Trying to get on the Roosevelt Island bridge. A bunch of cop cars, and an ambulance sped by on the bridge and now a NYPD truck just blocked the road. 

 So we got two different stories. 

First we heard that someone was shot within one of the apartment buildings. To me it looks like Roosevelt Landings. 

Then I saw someone videotaping it and he said it was a cop who shot somebody.

NYPD commanding officer of Patrol Borough Queens North, Assistant Chief Christine Bastedenbeck, said during a 2;20 AM press conference in front of Roosevelt Landings:

At approximately 11 30 PM officers from the 114th Precinct responded to multiple 9-1-1 calls at 540 Main Street regarding a male 21 years of age who was reportedly threatening a family member with a knife. The caller was a relative inside the location who also stated the armed male was off his medication and under the influence of marijuana.

The responding sector car consisted of two officers who are also backed up by two additional officers. The incident was captured on body worn camera and shows the four officers entering the lobby of the building.

Three officers then entered one of the two elevators while another officer propped the lobby door open to allow for additional responding officers to enter the building. All of a sudden the suspect emerged from the second elevator not occupied by our officers and moved quickly towards the officer securing the door swinging the knife directly at this officer. 

That officer retreated outside of the lobby and then the suspect then charged towards the elevator occupied by our officers still armed with the knife. The officers inside the elevator attempted to deploy a taser and also discharge their firearm striking the suspect.A large knife was recovered from the right hand of the suspect as seen here. 

Officers began rendering aid until EMS could transport the suspect to an area hospital where he was pronounced deceased 28 minutes after midnight. Thankfully none of the officers or civilians in the area were injured during this incident. I also want to acknowledge the response of local peace officers from the Roosevelt Island Public Safety unit 

The investigation will be handled by our Force investigation Division and additional information will be provided by DCPI as it becomes available....

Watch as NYPD executives provide a law enforcement update regarding an incident on Roosevelt Island https://t.co/XHG7w3Mk8t

— NYPD NEWS (@NYPDnews) August 5, 2023

CBS New York reports on the Roosevelt Island shooting.

This is the knife that was recovered on the scene of the incident pic.twitter.com/hv5jcoU020

— NYPD NEWS (@NYPDnews) August 5, 2023

According to the Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) Daily Incident Blotter:

08/04/23 – 2359 – 540 Main St – Domestic Incident – PSD, NYPD and EMS responded – Report filed.

RIOC issued this advisory today at 9:47 AM: 

Dear Residents and Community Members,

We would like to inform you about an incident that occurred late yesterday evening in the lobby of 540 Main Street. The Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation Public Safety Department and New York Police Department (NYPD) responded to a distress call involving a family member who was being threatened by a relative armed with a knife. Upon NYPD arrival, the situation quickly escalated, resulting in a police officer-involved shooting.

The perpetrator charged at officers with a large brandished knife, NYPD officers discharged their tasers and firearms striking the perpetrator in an attempt to neutralize the threat and ensure the safety of all involved. The perpetrator was pronounced dead upon arrival at the hospital. It was determined that the perpetrator suffered from mental illness and was under the influence at the time of the incident.

We are relieved to report that no officers or bystanders were injured during this incident. Our officers acted swiftly and professionally to address the threat and protect the safety of the community.

We extend our sincere gratitude to both NYPD and the Roosevelt Island Public Safety Department for their rapid response and collaboration during this challenging situation. We also want to assure you that a comprehensive investigation is currently underway, led by the NYPD, as the primary investigatory agency. As such, further information regarding the incident will be released in accordance with their ongoing investigation.

We understand that incidents like these can be distressing for the community, and we remain committed to maintaining open lines of communication. We will provide updates as they become available and will continue to prioritize the safety and well-being of all residents and community members.

Sincerely,

Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation

CBS New York has more on this Roosevelt Island shooting.

At 6 PM this evening, I asked NYPD Deputy Commissioner of Public Information (DCPI):

As of 11 AM there was no update from the early morning press conference by Assistant Chief Christine Bastedenbeck.

Is there any new information or update about the shooting this evening?

A NYPD spokesperson replied:

There are no updates. This remains on ongoing investigation.

Watch Video Of July 25 Roosevelt Island Public Safety Department Community Engagement Meeting - PSD Chief Kevin Brown Emphasizes Roosevelt Island Is Safest Community In NYC But We Are Part Of NYC And Have Issues That Need To Be Addressed

The Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) Public Safety Department (PSD) hosted a  community engagement meeting last Tuesday, July 25 at the Good Shepherd Chapel with approximately 35 people attendng.

Because the July meeting was held so late in the month, there will be no PSD meeting in August — the next meeting will be on September 5th at 6 PM.

— Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation (@RIOCny) July 27, 2023

PSD Chief Kevin Brown began the meeting by saying Roosevelt Island:

... remains ... the safest community in New York City. However,... We are part of NYC and there are some issues we have on Roosevelt Island. ... We give a thousand percent effort into making sure we address any issues that come up....

Among the issues discussed were:

• Mental health crisis - dealing with emotionally disturbed people,
• Recent assaults - 3 in June and a July sexual assault arrest made by PSD  in the subway (a male stuck his hands down the pants of a woman on the subway escalator),
• Public safety improvements at 460 Main Street with more PSD vertical patrols in the building and Social Services provided by Breaking Ground agency. (20 to 30 complaints per month have been reduced to 7 in June and 3 so far in July,
• Youth initiatives including 3 on 3 Basketball tournament with over 60 teens participating. Beginning of engagement with local youth including the 3 teens who have been involved in recent incidents,
  
• Island Wide security camera system fully integrated with NYPD ( helped find a missing 2 year old child this week),
• PSD Bike patrol and
  
• Unsafe traffic conditions including cars parked in crosswalk, bus stops and illegal U-turns. (Over 387 summons issued and 11 cars towed)
  

Here's video of the full 45 minute meeting.

Will have more on the PSD meeting at a later date.

You're Invited To RIOC Roosevelt Island Public Safety Community Engagement Meeting July 25 - Will RIOC Remain Silent On Their Own Public Safety Blotter Report Of July 8 Sexual Assault Arrest?

According to the Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC):

Our next Public Safety Department (PSD) Community Engagement Meeting is scheduled for next Tuesday, July 25th at 6 PM at the Chapel of the Good Shepherd (543 Main Street).

Thank you and we look forward to seeing everyone on the 25th! pic.twitter.com/gByrwPP0nt

— Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation (@RIOCny) July 18, 2023

Reported on Tuesday July 11:

Roosevelt Island Public Safety Blotter Reports Sexual Assault And Robbery Incidents Last Week - Also, Why Was Food Delivery Driver Arrested Last Night Asks A Resident?

On July 17, I asked Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) President Shelton Haynes, Public Safety Department Chief Kevin Brown and Assistant Vice President of Communications Akeem Jamal: 

I am following up again on the July 11 and 13 emails below regarding PSD Blotter report of a sexual assault arrest and several recent robberies as well as an arrest of a food delivery driver witnessed by several residents. I have not received any response yet from RIOC to questions about these incidents.

These are all newsworthy issues of concern to the Roosevelt Island community.

Does RIOC have any comment on these incidents?

If not, why does RIOC refuse to comment?

Perhaps RIOC will provide an answer at the July 25 PSD Community Engagement meeting.

Here's video of the June 13 PSD Community Engagement meeting which was very informative addressing concerns of Roosevelt Island residents.

Roosevelt Island Public Safety Blotter Reports Sexual Assault And Robbery Incidents Last Week - Also, Why Was Food Delivery Driver Arrested Last Night Asks A Resident?

This morning, I asked Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) Public Safety Department Chief Kevin Brown and Assistant Vice President of Communications Akeem Jamal:

The July 8 Public Safety Incident report lists:

07/08/23 – 0451 – 400 Main St – Robbery – PSD and NYPD responded – Gone on arrival/ Report filed.

07/08/23 – 1117 – 400 Main St – Sexual Assault – PSD responded – Arrest made by PSD.

The July 7 PSD Incident report lists:

07/07/23 – 1824 – 400 Main St – Robbery – PSD and NYPD responded – Gone on arrival and refer to NYPD.

Please provide details as to what happened regarding these incidents.

Also, last evening about 9:15 PM witnesses observed a Food Delivery worker being arrested by PSD on Main Street across from 520 Main Street. According to the witnesses, it was unclear why the Delivery Worker was being arrested as he was receiving a parking summons.

However the July 10 PSD Daily Report does not show any indication of an arrest at that time and place.  It does show a towed vehicle in the area an hour later.

07/10/23 – 2229 – 510 Main Street – Towed Vehicle – PSD responded – Towed.

What happened with the Food Delivery Worker last night? Was he arrested and why?

I plan on publishing a story on these incidents later today. Please let me know if there will be any comment from RIOC.

Thank you.

A Roosevelt Island resident who witnessed arrest of the food delivery driver last night

 

shares this video.

 

According to the Public Safety Officer, the food delivery driver was illegally parked and:

... smacked my hand while I was writing the summons. That's why he was arrested...

The witness reports:

A friend of mine and I just watched a food delivery driver get arrested for running food up to an apartment. He had his hazards on and was upset upon getting a ticket on his return. It seemed totally uncalled for and insane to witness.

We watched the whole thing and don’t see a smack or any kind of contact at all. We were across the street just leaving Island Om, so not the best vantage point but still. He was upset and pleading with the officer that the ticket would cut into his earnings, it was very sad. Once we saw him being arrested, we couldn’t believe it and started taking pictures and filming. 

The arrest itself—and the 4 or 5 officers that showed up, seemed excessive. He did not resist but I truly believe if he hit the officer’s notepad, it was by mistake as he threw his arms up in exasperation, if anything. Just disturbing, the whole thing felt wrong. 

There has been no response from RIOC as of 8:40 pm.

Watch Video Of Very Informative June 13 RIOC Public Safety Department Community Engagement Meeting With Roosevelt Island Residents - Topics Include Recent Crime Updates, Smoke Shop, Tram Lines, Illegal Parking, Marijuana Smoking, Bread & Butter Construction, Southpoint Park July 4 Closing And More

The Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) Public Safety Department (PSD) hosted a  community engagement meeting last night at the Good Shepherd Chapel.

Thank you to everyone who joined us for last night’s PSD Community Engagement meeting, we greatly appreciate the open and honest dialogue on the important island issues. Special thank you as well to Related and the NYPD 114th for participating in the meeting! pic.twitter.com/rjt81BFLaM

— Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation (@RIOCny) June 14, 2023

RIOC PSD Chief Kevin Brown, Deputy Chief Anthony Amoroso, Hudson Related's Ralph Yoakam, NYPD 114 precinct Lieutenant Dickson and about 35 Roosevelt Island residents attended the hour long meeting. 

Chief Brown began the meeting reviewing and updating recent Roosevelt Island crime incidents followed by Mr Yoakam who reported on 

1. the pending eviction proceedings against the Stationery/Smoke shop and 
2. the Bread & Butter Deli construction work being done at Island House without the landlord's approval.

Among the other Roosevelt Island public safety issues discussed were:

1. Roosevelt Island Tram Lines - how to make it easier for residents to get back and forth on the Tram when it is crowded with tourists. Use Metro Card to skip in front of line, said Chief Brown. Priority boarding for residents was also discussed but dismissed by Chief Brown using the F train analogy again.
   
2. Illegal Parking on Main Street - suggestions included issuing more tickets, towing illegally parked cars and issuing parking sticker permits for residents only.
   
3. Marijuana smoking on Main Street - Nothing can be done because Manhattan DA's office will not prosecute for smoking marijuana.
4. Security during Pride Month events.
5. Southpoint Park closing during July 4 Fireworks celebration due to NYPD security precautions.
   

Watch video of the full meeting.

PSD Chief Kevin Brown did an excellent job moderating the meeting and responding to concerns.

Yesterday, a Roosevelt Island Tipster reported:

This morning 11.30 on my way to the subway (I am resident of the island), I was attacked by a confused but aggressive man just in front of Starbucks. This man shout on me, kicked my cart and spit on me. People around did not move at all.

I called public safety as they were not there. Where are they? Why are they not staying in that location where all the neighborhood is passing by? At least they have to install cameras to monitor the aggressions.

I can’t believe this is happening here at Roosevelt Island. 

and sent an email to Chief Brown about the incident. 

Chief Brown replied:

I am extremely sorry for your incident today. The person who you spoke about was a male who was apprehended by the Roosevelt Island PSD officers. The male was evaluated by NYC EMS and was transported to NY Presbyterium hospital as an Emotionally Disturbed Person. Again, I am sorry for your incident but anytime you have any incident please call RIOC PSD we will always respond as quickly as possible.

The Tipster replied to Chief Brown:

Thank you very much for your quick course of action. Thankfully you are around. Is there any plan to improve the safety around the subway station as this episode is just one among others? Did you evaluate the potential of having video recordings or stationary PS agents?

I am not concern for myself but for our community, including the youngest and the oldest, who may not be able to handle the situation with someone who was trained to fight (as this man mentioned).

I will attend the meeting tonight.

This incident was mentioned during the Public Safety meeting last night. Chief Brown noted that the the emotionally disturbed person was apprehended by a Public Safety Officer 4 minutes after receiving a call about the matter. 

The Tipster noted:

The chief was very satisfied by the 4 minutes spent to arrest this man, I am more concerned by the absence of prevention of such unfortunate events.